Yes, an Indian citizen can generally open a company in RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone), UAE, subject to the applicable company registration, licensing, immigration, and approval requirements. RAKEZ allows eligible foreign investors to establish free zone companies with 100% foreign ownership, making it an option for Indian entrepreneurs who want to expand into the UAE market.
Whether you are planning to start an IT consultancy, e-commerce business, trading company, digital marketing agency, or another eligible business, RAKEZ offers different licensing and company formation options. Understanding the registration process, required documents, setup expenses, and visa requirements can help you make an informed decision.
In this guide, we explain how Indian citizens can set up a company through RAKEZ, the available business opportunities, and the key considerations before applying.
Why Should Indian Entrepreneurs Consider RAKEZ?
RAKEZ is a business and investment hub in Ras Al Khaimah, one of the seven emirates of the UAE. It offers company registration services, different licence categories, workspace options, and support for businesses across multiple industries.
Indian entrepreneurs may consider RAKEZ for several reasons.
1. 100% Foreign Ownership
Eligible RAKEZ free zone companies can be wholly owned by foreign investors. This allows Indian entrepreneurs to establish a company without necessarily bringing in a UAE national as an equity partner.
The applicable ownership arrangements depend on the selected entity and business activity.
2. Different Business Licence Options
RAKEZ offers licence categories for activities such as trading, e-commerce, professional services, consultancy, media, education, and manufacturing.
Choosing the correct activity is important because the licence determines the business operations your company is authorised to conduct.
3. Flexible Workspace Solutions
Depending on the business activity and package, entrepreneurs can explore coworking facilities, serviced offices, standard offices, warehouses, and other business premises.
The appropriate facility depends on the licence requirements and the nature of the business.
4. Opportunities to Access International Markets
A UAE company may help Indian entrepreneurs develop international business relationships, serve overseas customers, and establish a regional business presence.
However, access to particular markets and permission to conduct business in the UAE mainland depend on the company’s licence, activities, and applicable regulations.
5. Options for Different Business Sizes
RAKEZ caters to startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, and established companies. Entrepreneurs can compare suitable company structures and packages based on their business model and investment plans.
What Types of Businesses Can Indian Citizens Start in RAKEZ?
The most suitable business activity depends on your experience, target market, and investment capacity. Some options worth exploring include the following.
IT and Software Services
Indian technology entrepreneurs can explore eligible activities such as software development, IT consultancy, web development, and other technology services.
E-Commerce
Entrepreneurs interested in online retail can explore e-commerce licensing options for eligible products and services. Product-specific approvals, logistics, and mainland sales rules may also need consideration.
Digital Marketing and Media
Businesses providing SEO, digital advertising, social media management, graphic design, and content production can investigate the relevant approved service or media activities.
Management Consultancy
Experienced professionals may consider eligible business consultancy, operational advisory, and strategic planning services.
Trading and Import-Export
Indian entrepreneurs who want to trade goods internationally can explore commercial or general trading licences, depending on the products and intended activities.
Education and Training
Eligible education-related businesses and independent professionals can investigate the relevant educational or training activities, subject to licensing and additional approval requirements.
Always confirm the precise activity with RAKEZ before applying. Not every activity is available under every licence category.
Documents Required for Indian Citizens to Open a RAKEZ Company
The exact documents depend on whether the applicant is an individual or a corporate shareholder, the selected legal structure, and the proposed activity.
For an individual Indian applicant, the initial checklist may include:
- A valid Indian passport copy.
- Completed company registration and licensing application.
- UAE visa copy or entry-stamp information, if applicable.
- Emirates ID copy, if applicable.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC), where required for a UAE resident.
- Business plan, where required for the selected activity.
- Additional forms or supporting documents requested by RAKEZ.
If an existing Indian company intends to establish a branch or subsidiary, additional corporate documents may be necessary, including incorporation documents, board or shareholder resolutions, and evidence of the parent company’s registration.
Documents may need attestation, certification, or other formalities depending on their origin and purpose.
Important: RAKEZ states that individuals applying as investors, partners, or managers of all nationalities must obtain the applicable pre-approval for company formation or visa processing. Indian applicants should confirm the current requirements before committing to a package.
How Can an Indian Citizen Register a Company in RAKEZ?
The general process involves the following steps.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Identify the products or services your company will provide. Check that the proposed activity is permitted and determine whether additional regulatory approvals are necessary.
Step 2: Select a Company Structure
Choose an appropriate legal structure, such as an eligible free zone limited liability company or a branch of an existing company.
Your choice depends on ownership, shareholders, and whether you are establishing a new business or expanding an existing one.
Step 3: Select a Licence and Facility
Compare suitable licence categories, registration packages, and workspace options. Check whether the selected activity requires a particular facility.
Step 4: Submit Your Documents
Prepare the passport copy, application forms, and other documents required for your business structure. Complete any applicable pre-approval process.
Step 5: Pay the Applicable Fees
Review the official quotation and confirm what is included. Registration, licensing, facility, visa, and additional service charges may be billed separately depending on the package.
Step 6: Complete Registration
Once the necessary documents, approvals, and payments have been completed, RAKEZ can process the application. After approval, you can proceed with the relevant licence and any required immigration formalities.
Processing times vary according to the activity, application completeness, and approval requirements.
Can an Indian Citizen Get a UAE Residence Visa Through RAKEZ?
Yes, an eligible shareholder can apply for an investor or partner residence visa through a RAKEZ company, subject to immigration approval and the applicable conditions.
RAKEZ confirms that a single-shareholder company may support an investor visa application, while a company with multiple shareholders may support a partner visa application.
However, company ownership does not automatically grant UAE residency. A separate visa application and approval process is required.
Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, the process may involve:
- An entry permit or other applicable immigration procedure.
- Medical fitness testing.
- Emirates ID processing.
- Visa activation or issuance.
- Additional immigration requirements and fees.
Shareholders are not necessarily required to hold a RAKEZ-sponsored visa. The appropriate arrangement depends on their circumstances and the applicable rules.
How Much Does It Cost for an Indian Citizen to Open a Company in RAKEZ?
The cost depends on the business activity, licence, company structure, workspace, visa requirements, and additional approvals.
When preparing a budget, consider:
- Company registration and licence fees.
- Facility or office charges.
- Immigration and visa expenses, if applicable.
- External regulatory approvals, where required.
- Annual licence renewal expenses.
- Accounting, bookkeeping, and tax compliance services.
Rather than relying only on an advertised starting price, request a detailed quotation from RAKEZ that reflects your nationality, activity, company structure, and visa requirements.
You should also budget for ongoing operating expenses after the company is established.
Corporate Tax and Accounting Requirements for Indian Entrepreneurs
Indian entrepreneurs establishing a UAE company should consider their accounting and tax obligations from the beginning.
UAE free zone companies are subject to the applicable UAE corporate tax framework. A qualifying free zone person may benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income if the relevant conditions are met. Other taxable income may be subject to the standard 9% rate on taxable income exceeding AED 375,000, subject to applicable rules.
Free zone registration alone does not guarantee a 0% corporate tax rate. Companies should assess their registration, filing, financial reporting, and record-keeping obligations according to their circumstances.
VAT registration and reporting may also be required when the applicable conditions are met.
Indian entrepreneurs who continue to have business, income, or tax connections with India should separately assess their Indian tax residency and cross-border tax obligations. Establishing a UAE company does not automatically eliminate tax responsibilities in India.
Professional advice can help clarify the requirements applicable to your specific business and personal circumstances.
How Young and Right Can Help Indian Entrepreneurs
Opening a company is only the beginning of operating a business in the UAE. Maintaining accurate financial records, planning cash flow, and meeting tax compliance requirements are also important.
Young and Right provides accounting and tax-related services in the UAE that entrepreneurs can explore when planning their business operations.
Depending on your requirements, support may include bookkeeping, financial reporting, corporate tax services, VAT-related services, and other accounting assistance.
Before registering your RAKEZ company, prepare a complete business budget and understand the compliance obligations that may apply after formation. This can help you plan more effectively for the long term.
Conclusion
An Indian citizen can generally open a company in RAKEZ, UAE, subject to the applicable licensing, documentation, and approval requirements. RAKEZ offers different business activities, company structures, and workspace options for eligible foreign investors.
Before applying, identify your business activity, select the appropriate licence, confirm any required pre-approval, and obtain a complete quotation covering registration, facilities, and visa expenses.
Indian entrepreneurs should also consider UAE corporate tax requirements and any continuing tax obligations in India. With careful planning and appropriate professional support, you can make a more informed decision about establishing your business in the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can an Indian citizen own 100% of a company in RAKEZ?
Yes. Eligible RAKEZ free zone companies can have 100% foreign ownership. The applicable structure and licensing requirements should be confirmed with RAKEZ.
2. Does an Indian citizen need a UAE residence visa to open a RAKEZ company?
Shareholders are not universally required to hold a RAKEZ visa. However, the company formation and visa requirements depend on the entity, role, and circumstances. A manager may have separate UAE residency requirements, so confirm the applicable rules before applying.
3. Can an Indian citizen open a RAKEZ company while living in India?
It may be possible to begin the registration process while residing in India, subject to RAKEZ’s documentation, pre-approval, and application procedures. Confirm whether any steps require UAE attendance or additional verification.
4. Can an Indian entrepreneur conduct business in Dubai through a RAKEZ company?
A RAKEZ free zone company must follow the applicable rules governing its licensed activities and mainland operations. Depending on the business, mainland sales or operations may require an authorised distributor, agent, relevant licence, permit, or other arrangement.
5. Does a RAKEZ company automatically qualify for 0% corporate tax?
No. The 0% corporate tax rate applies to qualifying income of a qualifying free zone person that meets the relevant conditions. Registration in RAKEZ alone does not guarantee this treatment.
